🏛️ Haikou Qilou — Strolling Through Hainan’s Historic Arcades

In the heart of Haikou, Qilou Old Street (海口骑楼老街) is a blend of history, culture, and tropical charm. The term qílóu refers to arcade buildings with European-influenced facades and shaded walkways — perfect for sheltering from both tropical sun and sudden rain. Built mainly in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, these pastel-colored buildings once housed traders from Southeast Asia, Europe, and across China.

Today, the streets are alive with a mix of coffee shops, local eateries, and heritage-themed boutiques, alongside traditional grain shops and hardware stores that have been there for decades. The faded shutters, ornate balconies, and carved pillars make it a photographer’s dream, especially in the golden afternoon light.

💡 Tips:
• 📍 Located near Zhongshan Road, easy to explore on foot.
• 🌅 Visit late afternoon for beautiful light and cooler weather.
• ☕ Stop by a local café under the arcades for a nostalgic, slow-paced break.
• 🎨 Keep your eyes on the upper floors — many facades have intricate floral or geometric designs.

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Post by NatDiscoversAsia | Aug 15, 2025